News article from 8/16/2024
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has delayed the closure of the SR 18 on-ramp to westbound I- 90, originally scheduled for Wednesday, August 14. This delay affects the I-90/SR 18 Interchange Improvements project, which aims to improve efficiency and safety at the busy interchange. The first stage of this project involved the opening of new on and off-ramps, which was due to start on August 14. When completed, the project will introduce a new diverging diamond interchange, only the second of its kind in the state, designed to enhance traffic flow and reduce collisions. The full project also includes widening two miles of SR 18, building a new two-lane bridge over the Raging River, constructing new four-lane bridges over Deep Creek and Lake Creek, replacing six fish passage barriers, and improving habitat connectivity for wildlife.
The project is slated for completion in late 2025. WSDOT will announce a new date for the closure and the ramp switch in due course. Until then, drivers are advised to pay attention to new striping and signs.